Active Directory Policies

How to block automatic connection to Wi-Fi Hotspots using GPO

November 17, 2023
For organizations managing a fleet of Windows devices, ensuring secure and controlled network access is paramount. One aspect of this is preventing devices from automatically connecting to potentially unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots. This article provides a detailed guide for system administrators on how to use Group Policy to block devices from automatically connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots, enhancing…
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Active Directory Policies

How to block connection to non-domain networks via GPO

November 17, 2023
In the landscape of enterprise IT management, securing network connections is a top priority. One aspect of this is preventing domain-joined computers from connecting to non-domain networks, which can be a significant security risk. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for system administrators on how to block connections to non-domain networks using Group Policy in a Windows domain…
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Active Directory Policies

How to disable notifications for blocked programs in Windows Firewall via GPO

November 17, 2023
In a managed IT environment, controlling how users interact with security alerts is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and security. One such aspect is managing notifications from the Windows Firewall, particularly when it blocks programs. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough for system administrators on how to disable notifications for blocked programs in Windows Firewall using…
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Active Directory Policies

How to disable basic authentication for WinRM Service using GPO

November 17, 2023
In the realm of Windows systems administration, securing communication channels is a critical task. One key aspect of this is configuring the Windows Remote Management (WinRM) service, which allows for remote management of Windows machines. A common security enhancement is to disable basic authentication for WinRM to prevent exposure of credentials in plain text. This guide will walk through the…
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Active Directory Fundamentals

Configuring Port Forwarding in Windows Using NETSH

November 17, 2023
Port forwarding is a technique used to direct network traffic from one network port to another. In Windows, the NETSH (Network Shell) command-line tool can be used to set up port forwarding. This article provides a detailed guide for system administrators on how to configure port forwarding using NETSH, a task essential for various network management and troubleshooting scenarios. Understanding…
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Active Directory Policies

How to block Windows Spotlight using GPO

November 15, 2023
Windows Spotlight is a feature in Windows 10 and later versions that displays different backgrounds on the lock screen and offers suggestions on the lock screen. While it can be an engaging feature for individual users, in a business or organizational context, controlling this feature can be crucial for various reasons including maintaining uniformity, reducing distractions, or ensuring compliance…
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Active Directory Policies

How to create GPO to schedule security intelligence updates for Windows Defender

November 15, 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, staying ahead of threats means regularly updating security intelligence. For Windows environments, this is particularly true for Windows Defender, Microsoft’s integrated antivirus and anti-malware solution. As a system administrator, one of your key responsibilities is ensuring that these updates occur frequently and consistently across all…
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Active Directory Policies

How to configure the scheduled scan in Windows Defender via GPO

November 15, 2023
In the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity, ensuring regular system scans for threats is crucial. For system administrators managing a network of Windows devices, configuring scheduled scans in Windows Defender through Group Policy is a key task. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to configure scheduled scans in Windows Defender using Group Policy, aimed at enhancing network…
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Active Directory Fundamentals

Configure domain password policy - Here’s how

November 14, 2023
In this article, we delve into configuring the Active Directory Domain password policy, essential for maintaining robust security and compliance within your organization. The following steps, inspired by user interactions and common queries, aim to provide a comprehensive understanding and hands-on approach for advanced system administrators. Prerequisites for Configuring Domain Password…
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Azure AD Management

How to deploy Azure AD Connect with Custom Group Filtering Options

November 13, 2023
Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Connect is the bridge between your on-premises directories and the Azure AD, enabling you to maintain a common user identity for your workforce and setting the stage for complex hybrid identity solutions. One of the most powerful features of Azure AD Connect is its ability to filter which objects are synchronized to the cloud directory, based on attributes…
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